Proverbs 18:12

Authorized King James Version

Before destruction the heart of man is haughty, and before honour is humility.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
וְלִפְנֵ֖י
Before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#2
שֶׁ֭בֶר
destruction
a fracture, figuratively, ruin; specifically, a solution (of a dream)
#3
יִגְבַּ֣הּ
is haughty
to soar, i.e., be lofty; figuratively, to be haughty
#4
לֵב
the heart
the heart; also used (figuratively) very widely for the feelings, the will and even the intellect; likewise for the center of anything
#5
אִ֑ישׁ
of man
a man as an individual or a male person; often used as an adjunct to a more definite term (and in such cases frequently not expressed in translation)
#6
וְלִפְנֵ֖י
Before
the face (as the part that turns); used in a great variety of applications (literally and figuratively); also (with prepositional prefix) as a preposi
#7
כָב֣וֹד
honour
properly, weight, but only figuratively in a good sense, splendor or copiousness
#8
עֲנָוָֽה׃
is humility
condescension, human and subjective (modesty), or divine and objective (clemency)

Analysis

Within the broader context of Proverbs, this passage highlights salvation through declarative statements that establish theological truth. The theological weight of divine revelation connects to fundamental Christian doctrine about divine revelation, contributing to our understanding of God's nature and relationship with humanity. This verse contributes to the book's overall argument by building upon previous themes while advancing the overall message of Proverbs.

Historical Context

The historical context of the biblical period relevant to this book's composition provides crucial background for understanding this verse. The historical and cultural milieu of the biblical world informed the author's theological expression and the audience's understanding. The the cultural context of the biblical world would have shaped how the original audience understood divine revelation. Archaeological and historical evidence reveals Archaeological discoveries continue to illuminate the historical context of biblical texts.

Questions for Reflection

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